For families and individuals prioritizing passenger comfort and spaciousness, an SUV with captain chairs in the second row is an ideal choice. These individual seats offer a level of comfort akin to the front seats, significantly enhancing the riding experience, especially on longer journeys. Beyond comfort, captain chairs provide easier access to the third row in three-row SUVs, a feature particularly beneficial for families with children. Often boasting enhanced cushioning, dedicated armrests, and sometimes even center consoles, second-row captain chairs elevate passenger comfort far beyond traditional bench seating.
This guide, curated by the auto experts at keyfobx.com, dives into the best SUVs available on the market today that offer second-row captain chairs. Whether standard or optional, we’ve meticulously selected models, spanning both luxury and non-luxury segments, that excel not only in seating comfort but also in crucial attributes like performance, reliability, value, and safety. Our rankings are based on the rigorous BuzzScore system, which evaluates vehicles against their direct competitors, ensuring you get a comparative perspective within each segment.
1. Acura MDX
2025 Acura MDX
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Engine: 3.5-liter V6
Horsepower: 290 hp
Drivetrain: FWD or AWD
The Acura MDX stands out as a spacious and versatile SUV with captain chairs, making it a top contender in its class. Across all six trim levels, the MDX features Acura’s innovative multi-functional second row, equipped with a removable middle seat. This design cleverly allows for converting the bench seat into captain chairs, enhancing third-row access and passenger space. Starting at a competitive $51,200 for the front-wheel-drive base model and $53,400 for all-wheel drive, the MDX offers considerable value. The majority of MDX models are powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, ensuring a responsive and capable driving experience.
Inside the MDX, comfort is paramount. Second-row passengers, whether with the middle seat removed or in place, enjoy a generous 38.5 inches of legroom and 38.1 inches of headroom. Even the third row, often a point of compromise in many SUVs, provides a respectable 29.1 inches of legroom and 36.2 inches of headroom. CarBuzz expert Ian Wright highlights the MDX’s “pure Acura” sports seats, praising their thick, supportive, and comfortable design with ample adjustability, particularly in the Type S trim. While acknowledging the third row is “cramped” as is typical in this SUV class, Wright emphasizes the second row as “a pleasant place to be,” offering ample space for adult passengers, especially when configured with captain chairs.
Driven: 2025 Acura MDX Type S Is The Complete Package
2. Lincoln Aviator
2025 Lincoln Aviator
8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $57,095
Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 Gas
Horsepower: 400 hp
Fuel Economy: 18/26 MPG
The Lincoln Aviator secures its place as the second SUV on our list with captain seats, earning a BuzzScore of 8.6 out of 10. This American luxury SUV is celebrated for its stylish and modern design, coupled with a potent engine that caters to drivers seeking both comfort and performance. The Aviator offers three distinct trims: Premiere, Reserve, and the top-tier Black Label. The base Premiere trim starts at $57,095, positioning it competitively within the luxury SUV segment.
For the 2025 model year, the Aviator has streamlined its powertrain options, moving away from the hybrid variant. Now, every Aviator trim is powered by a robust 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Inside, the Aviator is designed to comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for larger families or those who frequently travel with groups. Second-row passengers benefit from a spacious 39 inches of legroom, while third-row occupants get 29.2 inches. Headroom is also generous, with 39.7 inches in the second row and 36.9 inches in the third row. While not marketed as a sports SUV, the Aviator delivers a powerful, quiet, and exceptionally comfortable luxury driving experience, enhanced by the available captain chairs in the second row.
3. Kia Sorento Hybrid
2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid
8.2/10
What is Buzzscore?
Engine: 1.6L Turbo Inline-4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 227 hp
Fuel Economy: 36/36/36 mpg (FWD) | 34/34/34 mpg (AWD)
Base MSRP: $38,690
Kia’s foray into hybrid SUVs is well-represented by the Sorento Hybrid, a compelling family vehicle that combines fuel efficiency with the sought-after captain chairs configuration and ample interior space. The Sorento Hybrid is available in two trim levels: the EX, starting at $38,690, and the SX Prestige, priced from $46,890. Both trims are equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain that produces a combined 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, emphasizing fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
Inside the Kia Sorento Hybrid, passenger comfort is a priority. Second-row occupants enjoy a generous 40.7 inches of legroom, while third-row passengers have 29.6 inches. Headroom remains ample, with 37.9 inches in the second row and 36.8 inches in the third row. While a panoramic sunroof is available, it only slightly impacts front-row headroom, leaving second and third-row space unaffected. CarBuzz reviewer Jared Rosenholtz notes the slight drawback of the Sorento Hybrid being exclusively available with captain chairs in the second row, wishing for a seven-seat bench option. However, he praises the captain chairs themselves as “very comfortable” and highlights the ease of third-row access, facilitated by a one-button slide-and-fold mechanism for the captain chairs.
4. Buick Enclave
2025 Buick Enclave
8.2/10
What is Buzzscore?
Engine: 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder Gas
Horsepower: 328 hp
Drivetrain: FWD | AWD
The Buick Enclave is another top SUV featuring second-row captain seats, recognized as an excellent family car. Available in three trims—Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir—the Enclave starts at a base price of $45,000 for the Preferred model. Each trim is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, offering a balance of power and efficiency. The Enclave’s interior configuration includes standard second-row captain chairs, paired with a third-row bench, allowing seating for up to seven passengers.
Passenger space in the Enclave is generous, with second-row occupants enjoying 41.46 inches of legroom and 39.96 inches of headroom. Third-row passengers also benefit from a comfortable 32.13 inches of legroom and 38.27 inches of headroom. Jared Rosenholtz from CarBuzz suggests that the Avenir trim elevates the Enclave experience, making it a compelling choice. He points out the Avenir’s luxury features, such as massage seats, and its improvements over other GM crossovers with active dampers and noise cancellation, making the Enclave “possibly our favorite of GM’s three-row crossovers,” especially in the higher-end trims.
2025 Buick Enclave First Drive Review: An Elevated Family-Hauler
5. Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
8.0/10
What is Buzzscore?
Engine: 2.3L Turbo Inline-4 Gas, 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6
Horsepower: 300-400 hp
Fuel Economy: 18/26 MPG
Base MSRP: $39,625
The Ford Explorer is a versatile SUV that caters to a wide range of needs, from family transportation to cargo hauling. With four trim levels, starting from $39,755 for the Activ trim up to $54,270 for the high-performance Explorer ST, the Explorer offers options for various budgets and preferences. Most trims are powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the ST trim boasts a more powerful engine.
Second-row captain chairs are standard on the Activ, ST, and Platinum trims, and available as an option on the ST-Line, enhancing passenger comfort and accessibility. The Explorer provides a comfortable cabin with 39 inches of legroom and 40.5 inches of headroom in the second row, and 32.2 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom in the third row. CarBuzz’s Nicole Wakelin highlights the practicality of captain chairs in the Explorer, noting they are “more comfortable for adults by far” and improve third-row access. She also points out the benefit for families, as captain chairs “put a little distance between the kids to avoid squabbles,” a valuable feature for many parents.
2025 Ford Explorer First Drive Review: More Premium, More Tech, More Value
6. Nissan Armada
2025 Nissan Armada
Base MSRP: $56,980
Base Trim Engine: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 ICE
Base Trim Horsepower: 425 HP @5600 RPM
The Nissan Armada has undergone a significant redesign for the 2025 model year, bringing a fresh look and enhanced features to this full-size SUV. The Armada is offered in four trims, with standard rear-wheel drive and optional four-wheel drive, starting with the SV trim at $56,520. For off-road enthusiasts, the Pro-4X trim is available from $73,740.
All Armada trims are powered by a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, ensuring robust performance for a vehicle of its size. While typically configured as an eight-seat SUV, the Armada offers second-row captain chairs as an option on all trims except the SV and Pro-4X, catering to those who prioritize second-row comfort. Regardless of the seating configuration, second-row passengers enjoy 39.2 inches of legroom, while the third row offers 32.9 inches, providing ample space for passengers throughout the vehicle.
7. Volvo XC90
2025 Volvo XC90
Engine: 2.0L Inline-4 Turbo (B5), 2.0L Inline-4 Twincharged (B6), 2.0L Inline-4 Turbo Hybrid (T8)
Horsepower: 247-455 hp
Base MSRP: $58,450
The Volvo XC90 is synonymous with Scandinavian luxury and practicality. Standardly configured with seven seats, the XC90 offers the option to replace the second-row bench with captain chairs, reducing seating capacity to six but enhancing second-row comfort and access. The base model XC90 starts at $58,450 and offers a range of powertrain options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 247 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with more powerful options available.
Whether equipped with a bench or captain chairs, the XC90’s second row provides 37 inches of legroom and 38.5 inches of headroom. The third row, while more compact, still offers 31.9 inches of legroom and 36.3 inches of headroom. CarBuzz Managing Editor Roger Biermann notes that while the XC90 cabin remains fundamentally unchanged, still seating seven by default, the optional captain chairs enhance second-row comfort. He considers the third row less suitable for adults or older teenagers but adequate for shorter trips or younger passengers, while praising the first and second rows for offering “more than enough space for adults to get comfortable.”
8. Cadillac Escalade-V
2025 Cadillac Escalade-V
Base Trim Engine: 6.2l supercharged V8
Base Trim Horsepower: 682 hp
Base MSRP: $159,995
The Cadillac Escalade-V stands out as a uniquely powerful and luxurious SUV with captain seats, blending high performance with family-friendly spaciousness. Starting at $159,995, the Escalade-V is not for the faint of heart, boasting a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that delivers a staggering 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque. This model caters to a niche market seeking uncompromised power in a large SUV format.
Inside, the Escalade-V offers the option for second-row captain chairs through the Executive Second Row Seating Package, an additional $7,500 investment. This package elevates the second-row experience, complementing the already generous space. Second-row passengers enjoy 41.7 inches of legroom and 37.5 inches of headroom, while the third row provides 34.9 inches of legroom and 38.2 inches of headroom. The Escalade-V is a statement vehicle, combining performance and luxury in a Captain Chairs Suv.
9. Cadillac Escalade
2025 Cadillac Escalade
Base Trim Engine: 6.2L V8
Base Trim Horsepower: 420 hp
Cadillac’s presence in the captain chairs SUV segment is further solidified by the standard Cadillac Escalade. While not as performance-focused as the Escalade-V, the regular Escalade offers comparable interior space and luxury features, starting at $87,595. It is powered by a naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and passenger hauling.
Similar to the Escalade-V, second-row captain chairs are available through the Executive Second Row Seating Package, also priced at an additional $7,500. This package enhances the luxury experience with a center console and entertainment tablets mounted on the front seat headrests. The standard Escalade offers the same generous interior dimensions as the Escalade-V, with 41.7 inches of second-row legroom, 38.9 inches of headroom, and 34.9 inches of third-row legroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers in this captain chairs SUV.
10. Cadillac Escalade IQ
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ
Engine: Electric
Horsepower: 680 hp (Normal mode) | 750 hp (Velocity Max mode)
Base MSRP: $127,700
Completing the Cadillac trifecta, the Cadillac Escalade IQ is a fully electric luxury SUV that brings electrification to the iconic Escalade lineup, while still offering the sought-after captain chairs configuration. Starting at $127,700, the Escalade IQ is powered by a dual-motor electric powertrain producing up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque in “Velocity Max” mode, with an estimated range of 460 miles.
The interior of the Escalade IQ mirrors the luxury and spaciousness of its gasoline counterparts, featuring a massive 55-inch digital display spanning the dashboard. Second-row captain chairs are again offered with the Executive Seating package, priced at $7,500, which includes 16-way power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated seats with lumbar massage. The Escalade IQ combines the benefits of electric propulsion with the luxury and comfort expected from the Escalade nameplate, making it a unique offering in the captain chairs SUV market.
What To Consider Before Buying An SUV With Captain’s Chairs
Opting for captain chairs instead of a bench seat in your SUV offers distinct advantages but also comes with certain trade-offs. Let’s weigh the pros and cons to help you decide if this configuration is right for you.
Pros
- First-rate comfort levels: Individual seats provide enhanced support and adjustability, significantly improving passenger comfort, especially on long trips.
- More space for second-row passengers: Captain chairs often offer more personal space and freedom of movement compared to a bench seat.
- Easier ingress to the third row: The gap between captain chairs provides a clear path to the third row, making access much simpler, particularly for children or less mobile passengers.
- More storage capacity (with center console): Some captain chair configurations include a center console between the seats, adding extra storage and convenience for second-row occupants.
Cons
- Less overall occupant capacity: Captain chairs typically reduce the total seating capacity of an SUV, often from seven or eight to six or seven.
- Generally limited to more expensive trims or luxury models: Captain chairs are often standard or optional on higher trims or within luxury SUV lines, potentially increasing the vehicle’s overall cost.
SUVs With The Most Cargo Space For 2025
Bucket seats versus captain’s chairs: Are they the same?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, captain chairs are essentially a type of bucket seat designed specifically for the second or rear rows of vehicles, particularly SUVs and minivans. The term “captain chair” often implies a focus on comfort and sometimes includes additional features like armrests or a center console, often found in SUVs with a luxury focus.
What is the best SUV with captain chairs?
The Cadillac Escalade, particularly when equipped with the Executive Second Row Seating Package, emerges as a leader in in-cabin luxury and passenger comfort within the captain chairs SUV segment. Its combination of supreme seating comfort, advanced infotainment, comprehensive safety features, and premium interior materials positions it as a top choice for those prioritizing passenger experience. While the Volvo XC90 may achieve a higher overall BuzzScore when considering all vehicle aspects, the Escalade excels specifically in accommodating all three rows with exceptional comfort, making it arguably the “king of the in-cabin lounge” among SUVs with captain chairs.
Are there any affordable crossovers with captain’s seats?
No, you don’t necessarily need to spend upwards of $80,000 to enjoy the benefits of captain chairs in an SUV. The Kia Sorento Hybrid demonstrates that this feature is accessible at a more budget-friendly price point. Starting under $40,000, the Sorento Hybrid offers a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, family-friendly features, and comfortable captain chairs, proving that luxury and comfort are not exclusively reserved for high-end SUVs.
Sources: Lincoln, Acura, Kia, Buick, Ford, Nissan, Volvo, Cadillac
